Describe a time you were friendly to someone you didn’t like – IELTS Cue Card with Sample Answers

IELTS Cue Card

Describe a Time You Were Friendly to Someone You Didn’t Like – IELTS Cue Card Band 9 Sample Answer 1

I remember a time at my previous job when I was assigned to a project that required close collaboration with every team member.

One of my colleagues, whose behavior I found irritating and difficult to work with, played a key role in the team.

Despite my personal reservations, I consciously chose to be polite, offered assistance, and maintained a positive demeanor throughout our interactions.

This approach not only improved our working relationship but also contributed to the overall success of the project, proving that professionalism can overcome personal differences.

Describe a Time You Were Friendly to Someone You Didn’t Like – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 2

During a community event, I encountered a neighbor with whom I had a long history of disagreements.

This neighbor, with whom I had clashed on several occasions, was known for our tense interactions.

Determined to change the dynamic, I greeted her warmly and engaged in a pleasant conversation, focusing on shared interests and local topics.

Gradually, this friendly gesture helped ease the tension between us and paved the way for improved mutual understanding.

Describe a Time You Were Friendly to Someone You Didn’t Like – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 3

At a recent family gathering, I found myself in a situation where I had to interact with a relative I wasn’t very fond of.

This relative, with whom I had little in common, was someone I typically avoided due to our occasional disagreements.

Recognizing the importance of maintaining a cordial atmosphere, I set aside my personal feelings and engaged in polite conversation, smiling and showing genuine interest in her well-being.

To my surprise, this approach led to a more relaxed interaction and opened the door to a better understanding, proving that friendliness can sometimes mend strained relationships.

Vocabulary You Can Use to Answer IELTS Speaking Part 2 Questions on Describe a Time You Were Friendly to Someone You Didn’t Like

• Cordial
  Meaning: Warm and friendly in manner.
  Example: I greeted him with a cordial smile, despite my reservations.
• Amicable
  Meaning: Showing a friendly and pleasant attitude.
  Example: Our conversation remained amicable even though we had differing opinions.
• Diplomatic
  Meaning: Tactful and skillful in handling sensitive issues.
  Example: Her diplomatic response helped ease the tension during the meeting.
• Tactful
  Meaning: Showing sensitivity and consideration in dealing with others.
  Example: I chose a tactful approach to address our differences.
• Empathetic
  Meaning: Understanding and sharing the feelings of another.
  Example: An empathetic attitude can help bridge personal gaps.
• Conciliatory
  Meaning: Intended to placate or reconcile differences.
  Example: I adopted a conciliatory tone to improve our interaction.
• Magnanimous
  Meaning: Generous and forgiving, even toward someone you dislike.
  Example: It was a magnanimous gesture to offer help despite our past conflicts.

Describe a Time You Were Friendly to Someone You Didn’t Like – IELTS Part 3 Follow-up Questions

1. Why might it be beneficial to show kindness to someone you have negative feelings towards?

Being kind can foster a more harmonious environment and may even lead to improved understanding and cooperation.

2. How can maintaining professionalism help in dealing with difficult people?

Professionalism often requires putting personal feelings aside, which can lead to more effective teamwork and conflict resolution.

3. Do you think that being friendly in such situations can change the other person’s behavior?

Yes, a friendly approach can sometimes encourage reciprocal positive behavior, leading to a more respectful interaction over time.

Vocabulary You Can Use to Answer IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions on Describe a Time You Were Friendly to Someone You Didn’t Like

• Forbearance
  Meaning: The quality of being patient and tolerant.
  Example: His forbearance helped defuse the tense situation.
• Gracious
  Meaning: Courteous, kind, and pleasant.
  Example: A gracious attitude can mend even the most strained relationships.
• Convivial
  Meaning: Friendly and enjoyable in social settings.
  Example: A convivial manner can make awkward interactions more comfortable.
• Pragmatic
  Meaning: Dealing with issues in a realistic and practical manner.
  Example: A pragmatic approach often yields better results in conflict situations.
• Resilient
  Meaning: Able to recover quickly from difficulties.
  Example: Her resilient nature allowed her to handle difficult interactions with ease.
• Tactful
  Meaning: Showing sensitivity and consideration to avoid offending others.
  Example: A tactful reply can often smooth over misunderstandings.

Tips for Answering Describe a Time You Were Friendly to Someone You Didn’t Like

• Be honest about the situation while emphasizing the positive outcomes of your actions.
• Explain clearly why you chose to be friendly despite personal differences.
• Use specific examples to illustrate your approach and its impact.
• Avoid using overly negative language or focusing too much on personal dislike.
• Practice your answer to maintain a calm and confident tone during the exam.